Did Odisha CEO Really Transfer EVMs Illegally Ahead of Nuapada Bypoll?
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Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Electoral Officer, R. S. Gopalan, strongly denies allegations of illegal EVM transfer from Ganjam to Nuapada. Amidst claims of conspiracy, he assures transparency and security in the electoral process. Join us as we delve into the unfolding drama surrounding the upcoming election.
Key Takeaways
- CEO R. S. Gopalan denies allegations of EVM transfer.
- EVM warehouses are secured with police and CCTV surveillance.
- All electoral processes are conducted in a transparent manner.
- Regular inspections are held in the presence of political party representatives.
- No evidence has been provided to back the allegations made by the BJD.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 10 (NationPress) The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, R. S. Gopalan, categorically rejected the claims regarding the alleged transfer of a truckload of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from Ganjam district to be hidden by the Nuapada District Election Officer-cum-Collector.
In a press briefing conducted on Monday, Gopalan stated that on Sunday, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) reported that the collector had illicitly transported a truck full of EVMs from Ganjam on November 9.
A news outlet subsequently aired this information without properly verifying it with the CEO's office. There were further claims that these EVMs were to be swapped with the legitimate machines intended for polling.
The CEO's office emphasized that EVMs and VVPATs are securely stored in District EVM warehouses across all 30 districts, adhering to Election Commission of India (ECI) protocols. These facilities are protected by police at all times, equipped with 24/7 CCTV surveillance, and maintain detailed logbooks.
Monthly and quarterly inspections are routinely performed by the Collectors, with all activities documented.
“Due to the severity of these allegations, we promptly initiated an investigation. EVM warehouses are present in all 30 districts, continuously monitored by the police and CCTV. No EVMs have been transferred to Nuapada from other districts. Only the machines stored in the Nuapada warehouse will be utilized for the upcoming election on November 11,” Gopalan stated.
He further mentioned that officials thoroughly reviewed the CCTV footage from the Ganjam district warehouses and confirmed that no trucks had entered or exited these facilities. Additionally, he noted that quarterly inspections at the EVM warehouses are regularly conducted in the presence of representatives from all political parties.
All inspections are documented on video and preserved by the CEO's office. Gopalan clarified that the warehouses in Ganjam district have remained unopened this month, with the monthly inspection still pending. The CEO's office maintains comprehensive records of EVMs used for training officials or other purposes.
He emphasized that all operations are conducted transparently, involving candidates and political parties with prior notice. Their participation is documented, and a list of EVMs is shared with them, ensuring acknowledgment.
CEO Gopalan urged the citizens of Nuapada and the state to disregard these unfounded and misleading allegations.
The BJD had promised to present evidence to support their claims; however, Gopalan remarked that such evidence has yet to be submitted.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach allegations regarding electoral processes with utmost scrutiny and integrity. Ensuring a fair and transparent election is the backbone of democracy, and any claims must be substantiated with credible evidence. The CEO's office appears committed to upholding these principles, and it is crucial for all political entities to engage in constructive dialogue rather than propagate unfounded allegations.
NationPress
11/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations were made against the Odisha CEO?
The allegations suggested that a truckload of EVMs was illegally transported from Ganjam district to Nuapada and concealed by the District Election Officer.
How did the Odisha CEO respond to these allegations?
CEO R. S. Gopalan refuted the claims as baseless, asserting that no EVMs were brought to Nuapada from other districts and that all procedures are transparent.
What security measures are in place for the EVM warehouses?
EVM warehouses in Odisha are secured with police presence, 24/7 CCTV surveillance, and undergo regular inspections by the Collectors.
Has any evidence been provided to support the allegations?
The BJD party had promised to provide evidence for their claims, but as of now, no evidence has been submitted.
What is the date of the upcoming election in Nuapada?
The polling in Nuapada is scheduled for November 11.
